GOLETA, CA….Los Padres National Forest officials announced that a hunting ban within the Lower Santa Ynez Recreation Area of the Santa Barbara Ranger District remains in effect. The Forest Order issued last summer to provide for public safety is being extended through February 28, 2013.

Violators are subject to a $5,000 fine for an individual or $10,000 for an organization or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both. Law enforcement personnel are strictly enforcing the prohibition, and the public is strongly encouraged to report any violations to the Los Prietos Ranger Station on Paradise Road.

Visitors are reminded that an Adventure Pass is required at all the recreation sites in the Lower Santa Ynez Recreation Area.

For more information on authorized hunting areas on the Santa Barbara Ranger District, please call the district office at (805) 967-3481.